In Partnership with: WELLINGTON NORTH BUSINESS … · WELLINGTON NORTH BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION PROJECT ... busines North. econom 70% o environ T ... helping both t and opport

WELLINGTON NORTH

BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION

PROJECT

FINAL REPORT

APRIL 2011

Prepared by:

Wellington North BR+E Project Coordinator Leah Holliday

[email protected]

(519) 848-3620 ext.30

In Partnership with:

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture,

Food and Rural Affairs

Saugeen Economic

Development Corporation

TD Canada Trust

Mount Forest & District Chamber

of Commerce

Arthur & District Chamber of Commerce

~ 2 ~

BR+E Final Report

FROM THE COORDINATORS DESK

As the Business Retention and Expansion Program Coordinator (BR+E) I recognized

immediately that BR+E was and will continue to be a very important project for the future of

Wellington North. By addressing the Action Plans and recommendations, both the business

community and the community at large will benefit from the results achieved. The willingness of

local businesses to participate in this project is excellent proof that the Wellington North

Business Community cares, not only about its future, but for the future of the community.

Members of the Economic Development Committee, Wellington North Council and the business

community who participated in this project should be recognized for their efforts. It is

imperative that we move forward with the implementation of the Action Plan outlined in the

latter part of this report; and that Council and the community move forward with this project. I

would like to thank the following organizations for sponsoring this project, the Ontario Ministry

of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), the Township of Wellington North, Saugeen

Economic Development Corporation, Mount Forest & District Chamber of Commerce, the

Arthur & District Chamber of Commerce and TD Canada Trust. Without their sponsorship,

BR+E may have not been the success it was!

Thank you,

Leah Holliday

~ 3 ~

BR+E Final Report

TABLE OF CONTENTS_________________________

1.0 Preface……………………………………….4,5 2.0 Methodology…………………………………6,7 3.0 Economic Development Committee…………8 4.0 Surveys……………………………………….9 5.0 Red Flag Issue………………………………..10 6.0 Project Analysis……………………………...11-59 7.0 Local Community Questions…………………60-62 8.0 Action Plans…………………………………..63-67 9.0 Conclusion……………………………………68

BR+E Fina

Ton the businesNorth. econom70% oenviron

T

question

TWellingLeah HEconom

TsurveyeIndustrynext ful

al Report

The TownsBusiness ses in the The Busin

my and encof new jonment is im

The BR+E

nnaire in a

The BR+Egton NorthHolliday, umic Manag

The informed, and dy businessell number f

ship of WeRetentionConstructi

ness Retencourage groobs come

mportant.

Program w

one on on

E project wh for a posiunder the er and Al R

mation conto not refes opinionfor ease of

PR

ellington Nn and Expion and Mntion + Exowth and s

from ex

was develo

ne interview

was sponsition of a B

guidanceRawlins, B

tained in thflect the rns and concf reading.

~ 4 ~

REFACE

North has pansion (B

Manufacturixpansion Pstability of

xisting bu

oped by th

w format.

sored by Business R of Dale

Business Re

his report aremaining cerns. Perc

prepared thBR+E) surving/ IndustProject helf local bussinesses;

he Ontario Food (OMARetentresultseconomhelpingboth tand opportbusineapproaconfid

OMAFRARetention +

Small, thetention an

applies to Construc

centages h

he followinvey comptry sectors lps to impsinesses. Aso a hea

Ministry oand R

AFRA). tion ands in job mic prog communthe barrier

the tunities esses. ach codential

A and the + Expansiohe Townsnd Expansi

the businection or Mhave been r

ng report bleted by lof Wellin

prove the lApproximaalthy busi

of AgriculRural Af

Busid Expan

growth osperity nities idenrs to surv

expanfacing lThe BR

ombines su

Townshipn Coordin

ships Busiion Champ

esses that wManufacturrounded to

based local

ngton local ately iness

ture, ffairs iness nsion

and by

ntify vival nsion local R+E

a urvey

p of nator, iness pion.

were ring/ o the

~ 5 ~

BR+E Final Report

Thank you to all the businesses who participated in the survey. Your input was invaluable to the success of this project. It is important for local businesses to take an active role in building a better business community!

Wellington North is an amalgamated township, consisting of the former Village of Arthur, the Town of Mount Forest and the Townships of Arthur, West Luther, West Garafraxa and Peel. The current population according to Stats Canada is 11,300 people residing over approximately 550km.

The quality of life available in Wellington North is second to none! Clean air and clean water, quiet tree lined streets, abundant recreational facilities, excellent shopping opportunities, convenient health care and educational facilities all provide a fulfilling lifestyle for the citizens of the Township.

We have much to be proud of in Wellington North. A new high school was built in 2004 for the students from Mount Forest and Arthur, as well as surrounding hamlets. In 2008 the Mount Forest Fireworks Festival was named one of the top 100 festivals in all of Ontario and has carried on this title through 2011.

The Village of Arthur is proud of being known as “Canada’s Most Patriotic Village”. Boasting a new Library and Health Facility, Arthur provides a safe and growing environment in which to live. The Luther Marsh is one of Southern Ontario’s most significant wetlands and wildlife habitat areas, located northeast of Arthur.

Old established neighborhoods are complimented by new residential development, and small urban centers by rural countryside. The Township provides a variety of lifestyle choices for its workforce, residents, and their guests.

BR+E Fina

Sthe answand the Since thDevelop

T

Ltime reManufacommun

O33% resend of t

al Report

Some peoplwer would findings fr

hen howevpment Com

There was a

Leah beganestraints aacturing/ Innities large

Of the thirtysponse ratethe surveys

le may askbe; becaus

from this wer, many e

mmittee fou

a contract

n by reviewand quanndustry anest employ

y-four selee. The datas.

METH

k the questise it has be

were used foeconomic cund it cruc

agreement

wing the Wntity, two nd Construyers. Busin

ected, a tota was ente

~ 6 ~

HODOLO

ion “Why Been done bfor key Ecoconditions cial to re-la

t between taPCinin

SMPTa

Wellington NSectors

uction, becnesses were

al of nine bered in bet

GY

BR+E in Wbefore in 20onomic Devhave chan

aunch the p

the Townshand OMAFProject Coordinaton Septembn April of

UndeSmall, Manager anProject CTownship, and the proj

North’s Buwere sel

cause thesee randomly

businessestween surv

Wellington002 and agvelopmentged and thprogram.

hip of WelFRA for th

Coordinr, Leah Ho

ber of 20102011.

er the guidBusiness

nd Leah HCoordinatoa Work Plject began

usiness Dirlected fore sectors ay selected.

s completedvey visits, a

n North?”, again in 200t programs

he Econom

llington Nohe hiring

nator. olliday, sta0, and fini

dance of DEcono

Holliday, BRor for an was for

n.

rectory. Dur the proare among

d the surveand also at

and 5,

s. mic

orth, of a The

arted shed

Dale omic R+E

the rmed

ue to oject; g the

ey or t the

~ 7 ~

BR+E Final Report

Beginning in October Media Releases were sent out to local papers to gain coverage on the project. At the start of November letters were sent to businesses attached with a survey, and they had the option to fill it out and return it back to the Township office or to contact either Dale Small or Leah Holliday to come and complete an interview.

Information packages were sent to area businesses who had requested it during the surveys.

In January, the remaining survey data was entered, the project information was analyzed, and a Preliminary Report was developed. The Preliminary Report was presented by the BR+E Coordinator at the February Economic Development Committee Meeting and a “brainstorming of ideas” session was held at to develop future Action Plans based on the results.

Action plans based on the ideas from the Economic Development Committee was decided upon with the Economic Development Committee Meeting in both February and March. The results from the surveys were presented at the Wellington North Showcase on March 28th/29th, 2011. The Action Plan was finalized at the beginning of April and was taken to the April Economic Development Committee for approval and the next steps for BR+E were finalized.

~ 8 ~

BR+E Final Report

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Business Retention & Expansion in Wellington North was made possible by the Economic Development Committee and their list of priorities for the Township’s Economic Development Strategies. The Township of Wellington North Economic Development Committee is comprised of Six Public Members, Five Council Members and the Business Economic Manager, they are the following:

Mayor Ray Tout Jim Taylor (Public)

Councillor Andy Lennox Steven Dineen (Public)

Councillor Mark Goetz Alan Rawlins (Public)

Councillor Dan Yake Dale Small (Business Economic Manager)

Councillor Sherry Burke

Three additional public members will be joining in April of 2011.

The Economic Development Committee is currently focused on the following six priorities for Wellington North:

1. Downtown Revitalization 2. Business Retention and Expansion 3. Marketing and Promotion 4. Professional Medical Recruitment 5. Land Development 6. Rural Revitalization

~ 9 ~

BR+E Final Report

SURVEYS

There were 23 businesses contacted for the Manufacturing/ Industry Sector, and of the 23 contacted, five completed the survey. From the Construction sector, 11 businesses were contacted, and four completed the survey. With both sectors combined there was there was only one “Red Flag Issue” and this was found most prominently in the Construction Sector. The “Red Flag Issue” will be acknowledged on page ten of this report.

Total completed surveys: 33% Response Rate

There were two businesses that requested information from the various issues in the survey.

The survey was divided in to seven sections: Business Climate, Future Plans, Company Information, Business Development, Business Development- Markets, Workforce Development and Local Community.

The majority of information requests were on Development Charges.

Throughout the survey, businesses had the option of “skipping” any questions they wanted to, so the percentages listed in this report, are based on the number of businesses who answered that particular question.

Thank you to all the businesses who participated in the survey. Your input was a key part to the success of this project.

~ 10 ~

BR+E Final Report

RED FLAG ISSUE

Overall, the survey results were positive. There was

only one Red Flag Issue. Development Charges was raised

as a Red Flag Issue in the Construction Industry Sector.

Development Charges is also a known issue with the Township of Wellington

North. To date, meetings have been held with both the Construction and Real-

Estate Sectors chaired by Councillor Dan Yake and the Building Committee. The

Economic Development Committee’s expectation is that out of these meetings a

resolution will go to Council.

~ 11 ~

BR+E Final Report

PROJECT ANALYSIS

Business Climate

BC1. What is your general impression of this community as a place in which to do business?

Response Count PercentExcellent 2 22%

Good 6 67%

Fair 1 10%

Poor 0 0% BC3a. What is your general impression of the Province of Ontario as a place in which to do business?


Good 3 33%

Fair 4 44%

Poor 1 10% BC4. Which, if any, of the following factors are barriers to the expansion of existing businesses and the development of new businesses in the community?

Response Count PercentWater/sewage capacity 2 22%

Water/sewer fees 3 33%

Serviced land 3 33%

Resistance from local business 0 0%

Lack of proactive new business recruitment 0 0%

~ 12 ~

BR+E Final Report

Availability of properly zoned and designated land 3 33%

Availability of variety of different sized parcels of land 1 10%

Approval processes 4 44%

Development charges 6 67%

Business taxes 4 44%

Business insurance 3 33%

Availability of skilled labour 2 22%

Availability of unskilled labour 2 22%

Availability of financing 2 22%

Road & highway system 0 0%

Inadequate waterway identification 0 0%

Water access 0 0%

Availability of water moorings 0 0%

Trucking & distribution 0 0%

Public transit 0 0%

Information technology capacity 1 10%

Security/policing & fire service 0 0%

Availability of natural gas 1 10%

Availability of space for rent or lease 1 10%

Availability of training opportunities 0 0%

Health & medical services 1 10%

Other (Specify): 1 10%BC5a. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Planning, engineering, zoning, and building permits

Response Count PercentVery satisfied 1 10%

Somewhat satisfied 5 55%

Somewhat dis‐satisfied 1 10%

~ 13 ~

BR+E Final Report

Very dis‐satisfied 1 10%

No contact 1 10% BC5a. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Health department/health unit approvals





No contact 1 10% BC5a. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations?– Policing





No contact 0 0% BC5a. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Fire prevention and services





No contact 0 0%

~ 14 ~

BR+E Final Report

BC5a. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Public utilities





No contact 0 0% BC5a. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Street repairs





No contact 0 0% BC5a. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Snow removal





No contact 0 0%

~ 15 ~

BR+E Final Report

BC5a. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Public transit





No contact 8 89% BC5b. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Medical and health services





No contact 0 0% BC5b. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations?– Library





No contact 4 44%

~ 16 ~

BR+E Final Report

BC5b. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Child care services





No contact 3 33% BC5b. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Cultural facilities





No contact 6 67% BC5b. What is your level of satisfaction with each of the following services provided by local government and community organizations? ‐ Recreational facilities





No contact 0 0%

~ 17 ~

BR+E Final Report

BC7a. Listed below are a number of provincial, federal and business organizations. Please rate where applicable, your level of satisfaction with the services provided. ‐ Ministry of Economic Development & Trade





No contact 4 44% BC7a. Listed below are a number of provincial, federal and business organizations. Please rate where applicable, your level of satisfaction with the services provided. ‐ Ontario Exports Inc.





No contact 6 67% BC7a. Listed below are a number of provincial, federal and business organizations. Please rate where applicable, your level of satisfaction with the services provided.‐ Ministry of Tourism & Recreation





No contact 6 67%

~ 18 ~

BR+E Final Report

BC7a. Listed below are a number of provincial, federal and business organizations. Please rate where applicable, your level of satisfaction with the services provided. ‐ Ministry of Training, Colleges & Universities, Business Training and Adjustment Services





No contact 4 44%

Future Plans

FP1a. Within the next 3 years, which of the following do you plan to undertake at this site?

Response Count PercentRemain the Same 6 67%

Downsize 0 0%

Relocate 0 0%

Expand 2 22%

Close 0 0%FP2a. Will the downsizing result in a reduced workforce?

Response Count PercentYes 0 0%

No 0 0%

~ 19 ~

BR+E Final Report

FP3a. Do you plan to relocate this business within the next 3 years?


No 0 0%

Exploring 0 0%FP4. Where do you plan to relocate this business?

Response Count PercentWithin the Community 0 0%Outside municipality but within County/District/Regional Municipality (Specify)

0 0%

Elsewhere in Ontario (Specify) 0 0%

Another Province (Specify) 0 0%

Outside Canada (Specify) 0 0%FP5. Why are you planning to relocate the business?

Response Count PercentHead office decision 0 0%

Inadequate facilities in terms of building space 0 0%

Change in markets 0 0%

Distance to markets and suppliers 0 0%

Availability of appropriate labour 0 0%

Expansion limitations 0 0%

Utility infrastructure is inadequate 0 0%

Local regulations too restrictive 0 0%

Business tax incentives in other locations 0 0%

Other (Specify): 0 0%

~ 20 ~

BR+E Final Report

FP6. Has a business case been made to head office to justify your company remaining at this site?


No 0 0%FP7. What assistance, if any, could help to prevent the relocation of this business?

Response Count PercentNothing, decision is made 0 0%

Finding an appropriate site location 0 0%

Financing 0 0%

Assistance with the approval process 0 0%

Finding and securing adequate labour 0 0%

Securing training services 0 0%

Accessing appropriate research and development 0 0%Infrastructure upgrades (roads, telecommunication, fibre optics, energy supply, energy type)

0 0%

Changes to tax structure 0 0%

Assistance in making business case to remain 0 0%

Other (Specify): 0 0%FP8. Within the next 3 years, do you plan to undertake a building expansion at this site?


No 0 0%

~ 21 ~

BR+E Final Report

FP9. Is your expansion plan based on innovation?


No 1 10% FP10. Will your expansion lead to….

Response Count PercentAn increase in work force 1 10%

An increase in floor space 0 0%

Additional product line(s) 1 10%

Additional services for customers 1 10%

Additional investment in equipment and technology 1 10%

Importing goods or services to Canada 0 0%

An increase in export of goods or services 1 10%

Process improvements 1 10%

An increase in demand for skills training 1 10%

Other (Specify): 0 0%FP11. Is your business experiencing difficulties with its expansion plan?


No 0 0%FP12. Please identify difficulties you are experiencing with the expansion plans. ‐ Financing

Response Count PercentFinancing 1 10%

Developing a marketing plan 0 0%

Developing a business plan 0 0%

Labour availability 0 0%

Land availability 0 0%

~ 22 ~

BR+E Final Report

Labour force training 0 0%

Availability of buildings 0 0%

Importing of goods and services 0 0%

Exporting of goods and services 0 0%

Road & highway system 0 0%

Highway and Roadside signs 0 0%


Warehousing 0 0%

Electrical supply 0 0%

Water infrastructure 1 10%

Waste water infrastructure 1 10%

Sewer capacity 1 10%

Finding/developing strategic alliances 0 0%

Local by‐laws 0 0%Other

0 0%

FP13. Within the next 3 years, do you plan to close this business? That is, close the business at this location and not reopen in some other location.


No 0 0%FP14a. What are the reasons for closing this business?

Response Count PercentHead office decision 0 0%

Facilities, e.g., buildings to small, too old, etc. 0 0%

Loss or change of customer/clients 0 0%

Distance to markets and inputs 0 0%

Labour supply 0 0%

Management ‐ Labour relations 0 0%

~ 23 ~

BR+E Final Report

Local infrastructure 0 0%

Expansion limitations 0 0%

Profitability 0 0%

Health/environmental regulations 0 0%

Unable to find purchaser 0 0%

Retirement 0 0%

Loss/or change of export/product mandate 0 0%Other (Specify):

0 0%

FP15. What assistance, if any, could help to prevent the closure of the business? ‐ Nothing, decision is made

Response Count PercentNothing, decision is made 0 0%

Finding new site 0 0%

Financing 0 0%

Approval Process 0 0%

Succession planning 0 0%

Employee purchase 0 0%

Improvement to local infrastructure 0 0%

Identifying prospective purchaser 0 0%

Export assistance 0 0%

Business planning 0 0%

Marketing 0 0%

Other 0 0%

~ 24 ~

BR+E Final Report

Company Information

C1. What is the legal form of this business?

Response CountPercentCorporation 8 89%

Sole Proprietorship 1 10%

Non‐Profit Corporation 0 0%

Branch Plant 0 0%

Partnership 0 0%

Cooperative 0 0%

Other (Specify): 0 0% C2. Is this business a franchise?

Response CountPercentYes 0 0%

No 4 44% C3. What primary activity is conducted by your business?

Response CountPercent11 ‐ Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting 0 0%

21 ‐ Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction 0 0%

22 ‐ Utilities 0 0%

23 ‐ Construction 4 44%

31 ‐ Manufacturing, (food, beverage, etc.) 1 10%

32 ‐ Manufacturing, (wood, paper, etc.) 0 0%

33 ‐ Manufacturing, (primary and fabricated metal, etc.) 2 22%

42 ‐ Wholesale Trade 0 0%

~ 25 ~

BR+E Final Report

44 ‐ Retail Trade, (motor vehicle, furniture, etc.) 0 0%

45 ‐ Retail Trade, (sporting goods, book, music, etc.) 0 0%

48 ‐ Transportation and Warehousing, (air, rail, truck, etc.) 0 0%49 ‐ Transportation and Warehousing, (postal service, couriers, etc.)

0 0%

51 ‐ Information 0 0%

52 ‐ Finance and Insurance 0 0%

53 ‐ Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 1 10%

54 ‐ Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services 0 0%

55 ‐ Management of Companies and Enterprises 0 0%56 ‐ Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services

0 0%

61 ‐ Educational Services 0 0%

62 ‐ Health Care and Social Assistance 0 0%

71 ‐ Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 0 0%

72 ‐ Accommodation and Food Services 0 0%

81 ‐ Other Services (except Public Administration) 0 0%

92 ‐ Public Administration 0 0%

No NAICS Code 0 0% C5. Is the owner (or at least one of the owners) involved in the day‐to‐day operation of the business?


No 1 10% C6. Is the owner (or at least one of the owners) of the business a resident of the community?


No 2 22%

~ 26 ~

BR+E Final Report

C7. Where is the headquarters for the business?

Response CountPercentMunicipality (Specify) 8 89%

Elsewhere in Ontario (Specify) 0 0%

Outside of Ontario (Specify) 0 0%

Outside of Canada (Specify) 1 10%

C8. How many years has this business been in operation in this community?

Response CountPercentLess than 1 year 0 0%

1 to 3 years 0 0%

4 to 10 years 0 0%

11 to 25 years 4 44%

26 to 35 years 8 89%

Over 35 years 0 0% C9. Is this a family‐owned business?


No 2 22% C10. Does the business have a succession plan?


No 2 22%

~ 27 ~

BR+E Final Report

C11. Does your business have a business plan?


No 1 10% C12. Does your business have a marketing plan?


No 1 10%

C13. How many employees work at this location?

Response CountPercentOwner(s) 0 0%

1 ‐ 4 3 33%

5 ‐ 9 2 22%

10 ‐ 14 0 0%

15 ‐ 19 1 10%

20 ‐ 29 0 0%

30 ‐ 49 0 0%

50 ‐ 99 0 0%

100 ‐ 299 3 33%

300 or more 0 0% C14. What percentage of your employees at this location live...Within the municipality

Response Avg PercentWithin the municipality 50%

Outside the municipality but within county/district/regional 50%

~ 28 ~

BR+E Final Report

municipality

Outside county/district/regional municipality 0% C16. Is your workplace...

Response CountPercentUnionized 1 10%

Non‐unionized 8 89%

Business Development

BD1. Is this business location the only location?


No 3 33% BD2. Is this location the headquarters?


No 0 0% BD3. Where are the other locations for this business?

Response Count PercentThis municipality (Specify): 1 10%Outside this municipality but in county/district/regional municipality (Specify):

0 0%

Elsewhere in Ontario (Specify): 2 22%

Another Province (Specify): 0 0%

Outside Canada (Specify): 1 10%

~ 29 ~

BR+E Final Report

. BD4. How satisfied are you with the current site of this business in this community? Would you say you are...

Response Count PercentCompletely satisfied 6 6%


Somewhat dissatisfied 1 10%

Very dissatisfied 0 0%

BD5. Why are you not completely satisfied with this site?

Response Count PercentSite is too small 0 0%

Site is too large 0 0%

No opportunity for expansion 2 22%

Condition of building 0 0%

General appearance of site 0 0%

Utilities/energy, that is the type, level or quantity available 0 0%

Location is inconvenient for customers 0 0%

Access to research and development in the area 0 0%

Availability of skilled labour 2 22%

Availability of unskilled labour 0 0%

Location is inconvenient for employees 0 0%

Roads & highway system 0 0%


Public transit 0 0%

Policing/security/fire protection 0 0%

Business taxes 1 10%

Community business support 0 0%

~ 30 ~

BR+E Final Report

General appearance of community 0 0%

Other (Specify): 0 0%BD6a. Is this a home‐based business operated from the owner's residence?


No 7 77%

BD6b. Is this a home‐based business operated from the owner's residence? Does the owner of this business own or lease the facility?

Response Count PercentOwn 5 55%

Lease 2 22% BD7. When does the lease expire?

Response Count PercentMonth to month 0 0%

This calendar year 0 0%

Next year 0 0%

In 2 to 3 years 0 0%

Over 3 years from now 2 22% BD8a. Do you anticipate any problems in renewing the lease?


No 2 22%

~ 31 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD9. Which of the following energy sources does this business use and prefer? By prefer, I mean the one you would like to use, whether or not you currently use it. ‐ Electricity/hydro

Response Count PercentUse 9 100%

Prefer 0 0%

BD9. Which of the following energy sources does this business use and prefer? By prefer, I mean the one you would like to use, whether or not you currently use it. ‐ Natural gas


Prefer 0 0%BD9. Which of the following energy sources does this business use and prefer? By prefer, I mean the one you would like to use, whether or not you currently use it. ‐ Fuel oil


Prefer 0 0%BD9. Which of the following energy sources does this business use and prefer? By prefer, I mean the one you would like to use, whether or not you currently use it.– Propane


Prefer 0 0%

~ 32 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD9. Which of the following energy sources does this business use and prefer? By prefer, I mean the one you would like to use, whether or not you currently use it. ‐ Wind


Prefer 0 0%

BD9. Which of the following energy sources does this business use and prefer? By prefer, I mean the one you would like to use, whether or not you currently use it. ‐ Bio‐diesel

Response Count PercentUse 0 0%Prefer

0 0%

BD9. Which of the following energy sources does this business use and prefer? By prefer, I mean the one you would like to use, whether or not you currently use it. ‐ Other alternative energy (Specify)


Prefer 0 0%BD9. Which of the following energy sources does this business use and prefer? By prefer, I mean the one you would like to use, whether or not you currently use it. ‐ No preference


Prefer 0 0%.

~ 33 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD10. Why don't you use the type of energy you prefer?

Response Count PercentNot available in this community 0 0%

Not available to my site 0 0%

Insufficient/inadequate availability of supply 0 0%

Price 1 10%

Cost of installation 1 10%


BD11. Do you have any concerns with respect to energy supply, management or efficiency? ‐ What are your concerns with respect to your current energy supply, management or efficiency?

Response Count PercentInconsistent supply/periodic brownouts 2 22%

Unusually high‐energy consumption 0 0%

Loss of productivity 0 0%

Cost of energy 0 0%

Other (Specify): 0 0%. BD12. Would your business benefit from engineering or technical support with respect to energy conservation and efficiency?


No 1 10% BD13a. Please provide us with some insight into the use and importance of IT in your business by indicating which you A) Use; B) Prefer and ... rate the importance of these technologies to your business. – Use

Response Count PercentDial‐up 0 0%

~ 34 ~

BR+E Final Report

High Speed: Cable 2 22%

High Speed: DSL 2 22%

High Speed: Wireless 5 55%

High Speed: Satellite 0 0%

High Speed: T1 2 22%

Internet ready devices (blackberry) 2 22%BD13a. Please provide us with some insight into the use and importance of IT in your business by indicating which you A) Use; B) Prefer and ... rate the importance of these technologies to your business.

Response Count PercentDial‐up 0 0%

High Speed: Cable 1 10%

High Speed: DSL 2 22%

High Speed: Wireless 4 44%

High Speed: Satellite 0 0%

High Speed: T1 2 22%

Internet ready devices (blackberry) 0 0%BD13b. Please provide us with some insight into the use and importance of IT in your business by indicating which you A) Use; B) Prefer and ... rate the importance of these technologies to your business. ‐ Use

Response Count PercentOwn website 6 67%

On others websites 7 77%

Email 8 89%

E‐commerce (online sales transactions) 3 33%

E‐commerce (online business/marketing) 3 33%

Government reporting/payments 6 67%

Finance & accounting 5 55%

Customer service 6 67%

~ 35 ~

BR+E Final Report

Broadening market potential 4 44%

Human resource management/training 4 44%

Distribution/supplier network 4 44%

Marketing 4 44%

Video conferencing 3 33%BD13b. Please provide us with some insight into the use and importance of IT in your business by indicating which you A) Use; B) Prefer and ... rate the importance of these technologies to your business. – Prefer

Response Count PercentOwn website 4 44%

On others websites 4 44%

Email 3 33%

E‐commerce (online sales transactions) 2 22%

E‐commerce (online business/marketing) 2 22%

Government reporting/payments 3 33%

Finance & accounting 3 33%

Customer service 4 45%

Broadening market potential 3 33%

Human resource management/training 2 22%

Distribution/supplier network 3 33%

Marketing 3 33%

Video conferencing 3 33%BD13c. Please provide us with some insight into the use and importance of IT in your business by indicating which you A) Use; B) Prefer and ... rate the importance of these technologies to your business. ‐ Use

Response Count PercentPersonal Data Application (PDA), e.g. ‐ palm pilot 1 10%

Pager(s) 2 22%

Cellular telephones 7 77%

~ 36 ~

BR+E Final Report

Digital telephones (touch phone) 5 55%

Voice over internet protocol 0 0%

Other 0 0%BD14. What, if anything, is keeping you from implementing any of these telecommunication technologies?

Response Count PercentTelecommunications infrastructure in community 0 0%

Start‐up cost of service 0 0%

Ongoing cost of service 0 0%

Privacy and/or security concerns (e‐commerce) 1 10%Experience with telecommunication applications within the business

0 0%

Local training opportunities for staff 0 0%Effectiveness or usefulness of the technology & potential business application unknown

0 0%

Have what is needed 0 0%

Other (Specify): 0 0%BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Product research and development

Response Count PercentVery important 5 55%

Somewhat important 0 0%

Not at all important 1 10%

Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Market development, locally


~ 37 ~

BR+E Final Report



Not applicable 0 0%

BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Market development, outside local area




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Access to exporting and international markets




Not applicable 2 22% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Access to importing of products & services




~ 38 ~

BR+E Final Report

Not applicable 0 0%

BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Add or change in products or services




Not applicable 1 10% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Strategic alliances (joining with other businesses)




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Improving worker productivity




Not applicable 0 0%

~ 39 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. ISO 9000/14000 or HACCP management standards




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Industry/professional standards




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Availability of labour




Not applicable 0 0%

~ 40 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Workforce health and safety




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Workforce skill development




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Energy costs




Not applicable 0 0%

~ 41 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Water/sewer availability




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Water/sewer costs




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Improved customer service




Not applicable 0 0%

~ 42 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Availability of telecommunication services




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Exchange rate for Canadian dollar




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Resolution of cross border issues




Not applicable 1 10%

~ 43 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Accessing capital




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Business planning




Not applicable 0 0% BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Strategic marketing




Not applicable 0 0%

~ 44 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD15. Looking forward to the next 3 years, indicate how important each of these factors will be in ensuring that this business remains competitive. Other (Specify)




Not applicable 0 0% BD16. Does the business import products or services from... ‐ Outside the municipality


No 1 10% BD16. Does the business import products or services from... ‐ Outside Ontario but within Canada


No 2 22% BD16. Does the business import products or services from... ‐ Outside Canada


No 1 10%

~ 45 ~

BR+E Final Report

BD18a. Do you participate in a product and/or service buyer‐supplier network?


No 6 67% BD18b. Do you participate in a product and/or service buyer‐supplier network? ‐ Would a product and/or service buyer‐supplier network be of benefit to your business?


No 3 33% BD18c. Do you participate in a product and/or service buyer‐supplier network? ‐ Is there a concentration of firms in your area that could provide complementary products or services?


No 5 55%

Business Development- Markets

MA1. Are you interested in pursuing any of the following with other businesses in your community?

Response Count PercentJoint product purchasing 1 10%

Joint marketing 0 0%

Collaboration/networking/information sharing 2 22%


~ 46 ~

BR+E Final Report

None

3 33%

MA2. During the past 3 years, what has been your total dollar sales trend at this location?

Response Count PercentIncreased 1 10%

Decreased 1 10%

Uneven sales pattern 1 10%

Same/no significant change 0 0% MA3. What are your expectations for next year's total dollar sales compared to last year?

Response Count PercentHigher 1 10%

Lower 1 10%

Same 1 10%

Not sure 0 0% MA4. Is the competition in your market...

Response Count PercentIncreasing 5 55%

Decreasing 1 10%

Staying the same 2 22% MA5. Is your market share...

Response Count PercentIncreasing 1 10%

Decreasing 2 22%

Staying the same 2 22%

~ 47 ~

BR+E Final Report

MA6. Do you receive market research and/or trend information regarding your sector from any of the following?

Response Count PercentIndustry/sector/association newsletters 4 44%

Industry/sector/association websites 4 44%

Government publications 5 55%

Government websites 6 67%

Consultants 1 10%

Trade Shows 4 44%

Economic Development Office 1 10%

Business networking 6 67%

Suppliers 6 67%

Other (Specify): 0 0%MA7. How do you identify your customer's needs?

Response Count PercentCustomer surveys 3 33%

Customer comment cards 1 10%

Informal customer contact 6 67%

Customer complaints 6 67%

Customer database management 5 55%

Sales calls 4 44%

Trade or industry publications 4 44%

Marketing publications 4 44%

Electrical communications (Internet, web page) 0 0%


~ 48 ~

BR+E Final Report

MA8. How do you market your products/services? – Internet

Response Count PercentOntario/Canada 4 44%

Outside Canada 0 0%MA9. How do you market your products/services? ‐ Trade Show Attendance


Outside Canada 0 0%MA10. How do you market your products/services? ‐ General Publications


Outside Canada 0 0%MA11. How do you market your products/services? – Distributor


Outside Canada 0 0%MA12. How do you market your products/services? ‐ Sponsorship of events


Outside Canada 0 0%MA12. How do you market your products/services? ‐ Business cards


Outside Canada 0 0%MA12. How do you market your products/services? ‐ Other (Specify)


Outside Canada 0 0%

~ 49 ~

BR+E Final Report

Workforce Development

WD1. During the past 3 years, has the number of employees in this business increased, decreased or stayed the same? Please indicate the number if an increase or a decrease occurred.

Response Count PercentIncreased 3 33%

Decreased 0 0%

Remain the same 6 67%

Don't know 0 0% . WD2. What factors are responsible for this change?

Response Count PercentBusiness did not exist before 0 0%

Technological changes in your business 0 0%

Increase or decrease in market competition 0 0%

Management effectiveness 0 0%

Corporate decision or policies 1 10%

More or less subcontracting 0 0%

Renovation or expansion 0 0%

Increase or decrease in sales 3 33%

New products or services introduced 3 33%

Entered new market 1 10%

Increase or decrease in market share 0 0%

Contracts/outsourcing 0 0%


~ 50 ~

BR+E Final Report

WD3. During the next 3 years, do you think the number of employees in this business will increase, decrease or stayed the same? If you anticipate an increase or a decrease, please write in the number you will gain or lose.

Response Count PercentIncrease 3 33%

Decrease 0 0%

Remain the same 5 55%

Don't know 0 0% WD4. What factors are responsible for this change?

Response Count PercentTechnological changes in your business 0 0%

Increase or decrease in market competition 0 0%

Management effectiveness 1 10%

Corporate decision or policies 0 0%

More or less subcontracting 0 0%

Renovation or expansion 1 10%

Increase or decrease in sales 2 22%

New products or services introduced 2 22%

Entered new market 1 10%

Increase or decrease in market share 1 10%

Contracts/outsourcing 0 0%


WD5a. How do you rate the availability of workers in this area for your business needs?


Good 5 55%

~ 51 ~

BR+E Final Report

Fair 4 44%

Poor 0 0% WD6a. How do you rate the quality of the workforce in this area for your business needs?


Good 6 67%

Fair 2 22%

Poor 0 0% WD7a. How do you rate the stability of the workforce in this area for your business needs?


Good 4 44%

Fair 4 44%

Poor 0 0% WD8. What are the A) current and B) 3‐year projected employee needs of your business? ‐ Skilled trades (Specify)

Response Count PercentSkilled trades (Type) 0 0%

Unskilled labour (Type) 0 0%

Industry specialists (Type) 0 0%

Manufacturing technology (Type) 0 0%

Computer technology/programming (Type) 0 0%

Environmental technology/management (Type) 0 0%

Electronic engineering (Type) 0 0%

Clerical (Type) 0 0%

~ 52 ~

BR+E Final Report

Sales (Type) 0 0%

Business Administration (Type) 0 0%

Product development (Type) 0 0%

Market development (Type) 0 0%

Other (Type) 0 0%

Other (Type) 0 0%

Other (Type) 0 0%

Other (Type) 0 0%

Other (Type) 0 0%

Apprenticeship (Type) 0 0%

None (Type) 0 0%WD9. Are you able to recruit sufficient qualified employees for this location?


No 2 22% WD12a. Does this business have difficulty retaining employees?


No 6 67% WD12b. What are the reasons for these difficulties?

Response Count PercentWages 1 10%

Competition 0 0%

Seasonal 0 0%


~ 53 ~

BR+E Final Report

WD12c. Would you like information on employee retention strategies?


No 2 22% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas?– Reading


No 2 22% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas?– Numeracy


No 2 22% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? Oral Communication


No 1 10% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? Written communication


No 2 22%

~ 54 ~

BR+E Final Report

WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas?– Supervisory


No 2 22% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Computer software


No 1 10% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Computer hardware


No 2 22% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Sales & marketing


No 3 33% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Financial management


No 2 22%

~ 55 ~

BR+E Final Report

WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Customer Service


No 1 10% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Working with others


No 2 22% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Health & safety


No 3 33% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Quality assurance


No 1 10% WD13. Does your workforce need to improve skills in any of the following areas? ‐ Other (Specify)


No 0 0%

~ 56 ~

BR+E Final Report

WD14. Where do your employees receive training, and does this training meet your needs?

Response Count PercentLocal Community College 4 44%

Distance Education 3 33%

In‐house 8 89%

Customized training 3 33%

University 2 22%

Outside of the area (Specify): 1 10%

Other (Specify): 0 0%WD14. Where do your employees receive training, and does this training meet your needs? ‐ Local Community College


No 1 10% WD14. Where do your employees receive training, and does this training meet your needs? ‐ Distance Education


No 0 0% WD14. Where do your employees receive training, and does this training meet your needs? ‐ In‐house


No 0 0%

~ 57 ~

BR+E Final Report

WD14. Where do your employees receive training, and does this training meet your needs? ‐ Customized training


No 0 0% WD14. Where do your employees receive training, and does this training meet your needs? ‐ University


No 0 0% WD14. Where do your employees receive training, and does this training meet your needs? ‐ Outside of the area


No 0 0% WD15. What are the most significant barriers to your employees receiving the necessary training?

Response Count PercentCost 1 10%

Awareness of existing training programs 1 10%

Awareness of training support programs 0 0%

Relevant training is not offered at community college 0 0%

Distance to training facility 0 0%

Availability of training locally 0 0%

Unable to release employees 2 22%

Losing trained employees to other businesses 1 10%

Awareness of legislated training 0 0%

~ 58 ~

BR+E Final Report

Loss of productivity during training period 1 10%

Other (Specify): 0 0%WD16a. Would a mentoring program benefit the businesses in this community? This would involve meeting and working with other businesses as a way of sharing and learning new skills.


No 2 22%

Not sure 0 0% WD16b. Would your business benefit from a mentoring program in any one of the following areas?

Response Count PercentBusiness planning 0 0%

Marketing 1 10%

Financial 0 0%

Technical 0 0%

Human Resources 1 10%

Production 0 0%

Logistics (distribution) 0 0%

Other (Specify): 0 0%WD16c. Would your business benefit from a mentoring program in any one of the following areas? ‐ Would you or your company be willing to participate as a mentor in a mentoring program? In which area could you or your company provide mentorship?

Response Count PercentBusiness planning 0 0%

Marketing 0 0%

Financial 0 0%

Technical 0 0%

~ 59 ~

BR+E Final Report

Human Resources 0 0%

Production 0 0%

Logistics (distribution) 0 0%


BR+E Fina

The follocompiledsurvey. TCoordinato choossuited Wanswers answers.to some reflection

1.Whatcore? A

Address

A need

A need

more ac

2. Whatfuture? Municip Business

al Report

owing quesd for the LThis sectioator and the question

Wellington Nthat are sh. Because textent, then of the ma

t are the toAnswers:

s buildings

for more n

for a “big

ccessibility

t is your biAnswers:

al Costs an

s and prope

L

stions wereocal Comm

on allowed he Businesss based onNorth as a

hown were this sectione answers pajority of r

op FOUR

s in poor co

niche mark

box” store

y for the di

iggest con

nd Charges

erty taxes

OCAL C

e created amunity secthe BR+E

s Economin what was

communitthe most c

n was a “frprovided beresponses.

things you

ondition

kets

e/ anchor st

sabled in t

cern with

s EX. wate

~ 60 ~

COMMU

and ction of theE

c Manger felt well

ty. The consistent ree for all” elow are a

u feel shou

tores

he downto

doing bus

er and sewe

UNITY

e

uld be don

own

siness in th

er costs

ne to the d

he

downtown

~ 61 ~

BR+E Final Report

3. What is the one positive consistent comment from your customers about doing business in this community? Answers: How beautiful this area is and how nice the people are! 4. Within the past five years what would you say your biggest complaint from your customers would be in the area? Answers: Water and Sewer costs Property taxes 5. Which new suppliers of products or services would you like to see added to this community? Answers: Indoor Pool Live Theatre Chain Restaurant

~ 62 ~

BR+E Final Report

6.Please describe how local business associations and/or economic development offices could assist your business sector.

Response Count PercentMarketing seminars 0 0%

Access to capital seminars 0 0%

Trade shows 2 22%

Business networking sessions 4 44%

Export development programs and services 0 0%

Joint advertising and marketing 4 44%

Attraction of related supply & services businesses 0 0%

Workforce planning, employee training and attraction 4 44%Identification of opportunities for shared use of buildings, infrastructure etc.

0 0%

Productivity improvement workshops 0 0%

Website development 0 0%

E‐marketing 0 0%

~ 63 ~

BR+E Final Report

ACTION PLANS

Upon completion of the surveys, all of the data collected was compiled into readable raw data format. The raw data was then analyzed in detail by the Business Retention and Expansion Coordinator (BR+E Coordinator) and the Economic Development Committee (EDC). As a result of this analysis, the BR+E Coordinator and the EDC identified potential project areas that need addressed or initiated to meet long- term goals of the project. By addressing the issues and potential projects identified as action items, it will ultimately ensure that positive benefits are received in the community from this BR+E process.

For each of the potential projects identified, an Action Plan was developed to be utilized in achieving the stated project. Each Action Plan proposed includes the following components:

Definition of the project

Action item

Actions to be taken

Potential project partners

Time frame for completion

Short Term= under one year

Medium Term= one to two years

Long Term-=two + years

Action Plan 1- Development Charges

Action Plan 2- Cross Sharing of Company Resources and Information

Action Plan 3- Community Improvement Plan (CIP)

Action Plan 4- Business &/ or Industry Networking Sessions

~ 64 ~

BR+E Final Report

1.Development Charges Action Item Responsibility

Time Frame

Develop innovative strategies and information from surrounding municipalities to help deal with the current rate. Partner with local business owners to discuss strategies.

Project Lead: Township of Wellington North Council, Building Committee Chair Councillor Dan Yake, in partnership with Business Economic Manager, Economic Development Committee.

Short

Survey results summary When asked what factors were barriers to the development of new business in the community (89%) of respondents stated it was because of development charges.

Actions to be taken

Discuss results with Economic Development Committee. Determine what can be done to accommodate the Township’s role and the business owners. Meetings to be held with the Building Committee Chair Councillor Dan Yake and local business owners from the Construction and Real Estate Sectors.

~ 65 ~

BR+E Final Report

2. Cross Sharing of Company Resources and Information

Action Item Responsibility Time Frame Encourage local business to network and communicate on a regular basis to capitalize on joint training and company resource sharing opportunities. For example. WHMIS & Health and Safety training.

Project Lead: Business Economic Manager and the Economic Development Committee

Short to Medium

Survey results summary During a debrief section of the interview process, businesses were asked to provide ideas for future recommendations. The majority of businesses said that cost and distance were barriers to employees receiving training and that local joint training should be considered for the future.

Actions to be taken Create partnerships to capitalize on training opportunities and resource sharing between businesses.

~ 66 ~

BR+E Final Report

3. Community Improvement Plan

Action Item Responsibility Time Frame To promote and encourage commercial and industrial revitalization.

Project Lead: Business Economic Manager and Economic Development Committee Champion.

Medium to Long

Survey results summary (89%) of respondents indicated in the “Local Community” section that the Township of Wellington North would benefit from a community improvements.

Actions to be taken Implement a Community Improvement Plan which includes a Façade Improvement Loan and Grant Program and a Signage Improvement Grant Program for local owners of commercial and industrial buildings.

~ 67 ~

BR+E Final Report

3. Business &/ or Industry Networking Sessions

Action Item Responsibility Time Frame To promote and encourage local Business &/ or Industry Networking Sessions.

Project Lead: Business Economic Manager and Economic Development Committee.

Short to Medium

Survey results summary (44%) of respondents indicated in the “Local Community” section that they would benefit from the Township of Wellington North Economic Development offices assisting and providing Business &/ or Industry Networking Sessions. For example. Business After Five, Wellington North Showcase.

Actions to be taken Create a partnership with local businesses to promote and implement Business &/ or Industry Networking Sessions either on a monthly or bi-monthly basis.

~ 68 ~

BR+E Final Report

CONCLUSION

The Business Retention and Expansion Action Plan will become a key element of the Township of Wellington North’s local Economic Development efforts. The objectives of this project were to:

Short Term Objectives

• Build relationships with local businesses • Demonstrate and provide community support for local business • Address urgent business concerns and issues • Improve communication between the community, local government and

business • Promotion of a positive attitude to work towards a solution

Long Term Objectives

• Increase the competitiveness of local businesses • Support an improved working relationship between the Arthur Chamber,

Mount Forest Chamber and Township of Wellington North • Strong viable local economy

While some of these objectives have been achieved through this project to date, many are longer term and will require committed resources from Council, the Economic Development Committee, the business community and the community at large.

The Final Report and Action Plan set the stage for business development within the community. Beyond resources, the most important element to the successful implementation of the Action Plan will be patience. The results from the plan will not be recognized overnight, however, the benefits will be realized through commitment and hard work, something the Economic Development Committee has proved time and time again. A number of exciting initiatives and plans are underway or are in the midst of being considered for Wellington North, so stay tuned for BR+E has only just begun!

BR+E Fina

al Report

TakinWing CarWelling

~ 69 ~

re of Bngton N

BusinesNorth!

ss in !

Documents

In Partnership with: WELLINGTON NORTH BUSINESS … · WELLINGTON NORTH BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION PROJECT ... busines North. econom 70% o environ T ... helping both t and opport